Lt Gen (retd) Arif Hasan has decided to step down as the president of the Pakistan Olympic Association on account of his deteriorating health, reported the 24NewsHD TV channel.
He remained in the office for over 20 years as he was first elected as president of POA in March 2004.
During his leadership, Pakistan failed to show any big achievements in the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
In his resignation letter, dated December 28, 2023, he wrote, “I am writing to formally resign as the President of the Pakistan Olympic Association, effective January 1, 2024,”.
Arif has been in the USA for the last many days for his treatment.
He confirmed in his resignation letter addressed to members of POA’s Executive Committee that he has decided to step aside due to his health.
“The decision to step aside is not one I have taken lightly. It is borne out of the necessity to balance my health and well-being with the demands of leading such a dynamic and impactful organization. Hope you will understand and respect this decision of mine,” he added.
“I assure you that I earnestly desire a smooth transition to ensure the continuity of our excellent work. It is my sincere wish that POA continues to thrive and excel, building on the solid foundation we have established together,” he noted.
Hasan, who was first named as head of the organizing committee of the South Asian Games in 2002, was first elected to the office of POA in 2004. He was then elected for the next four consecutive terms.
During the presidency of Lt Gen Arif Hassan, many parallel sports organizations were formed in the country.